A rare and potent October storm has hit California, bringing heavy rain, high winds, and the significant threat of mudslides to wildfire-scarred Los Angeles neighborhoods, prompting evacuations and widespread alerts.
California is grappling with a rare and powerful October storm, described as "very potent," bringing heavy rainfall, high winds, and the unusual threat of tornadoes, particularly to the Los Angeles area. A major concern is the potential for catastrophic mudslides and debris flows in regions recently affected by wildfires, which have stripped hillsides of vegetation. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass confirmed that emergency teams, including strike and rescue units, are on standby. Evacuation orders were issued for approximately 115 homes, primarily in Pacific Palisades and Mandeville Canyon—areas previously hit by a deadly January inferno. A flash flood warning and shelter-in-place order are active for parts of Santa Barbara County. The storm has already caused power outages for over 16,000 residents, led to hydroplaning incidents on flooded roads, and prompted road closures like State Route 27. Meteorologists from the National Weather Service highlight the storm's unpredictable nature. The article also notes urban flooding in Northern California and mentions severe weather impacting Alaska and Arizona.
